Recreational visits down 77% due to Covid-19 lockdown, shows Google data

Search engine is using its location data to track footfalls at retail outlets, parks, movies and eateries; grocery and pharma visits down 65%

The world’s biggest search engine is using its technology and reach into people’s lives to examine the effectiveness of coronavirus disease (Covid-19) countermeasures. It has used location data to determine visits to high frequency locations such as workplaces, recreational and retail outlets and parks; among others.

India has seen a 77 per cent decline in retail and recreation visits in the latest report compared to a baseline for a 5-week period ending February 6, 2020. This includes places like movie theatres, cafes and restaurants.  

Grocery and pharmacy visits are down 65 per cent. Parks have seen a 57 per cent fall. Transit